CN113710138A - Cleaning machine with a hinge device and cleaning machine with a drive device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a cleaning machine comprising a cleaning head (52), a retaining lever arrangement (100) and a hinge arrangement (96), by means of which the retaining lever arrangement (100) is pivotably articulated on the cleaning head (52). A connecting element (120) is arranged on the retaining lever arrangement (100), said connecting element having a first region (126) and a second region (128), wherein the second region (128) is spaced apart from the first region (126) in a transverse direction (129), the transverse direction (129) being oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the retaining lever arrangement (100), wherein the connecting element (120) is connected via the second region (128) to a joint (102) of a joint arrangement (96), to which joint an axis of oscillation (104) is associated, wherein in particular the joint is a first joint (102) of the joint arrangement (96) having a first axis of oscillation (104), and wherein the connecting element (120) is connected via the first region (126) to the retaining lever arrangement (100).

Description

Cleaning machine with a hinge device and cleaning machine with a drive device

Technical Field

The invention relates to a cleaning machine comprising a cleaning head, a holding rod arrangement and a hinge arrangement, the holding rod arrangement being pivotably articulated on the cleaning head via the hinge arrangement.

The invention also relates to a cleaning machine comprising a cleaning head, a first roller unit, a second roller unit and a drive for rotationally driving the first roller unit and the second roller unit.

Background

GB 146,816 discloses a portable vacuum cleaner with a gripper.

US 2019/0099052 a1 discloses a rotary mop cleaner.

EP 0950370 a2 discloses a drive system for two counter-rotating cylindrical brushes.

DE 102013215198 a1 discloses a manually guided floor processor.

DE 202013012345U 1 discloses a sweeping machine.

DE 10357637 a1 discloses a self-propelled or to be moved sweeper.

DE 2102325 a discloses a device for plugging and applying cleaning foam.

Surface cleaning machines are known from WO 2016/058901 a1, WO 2016/058856 a1, WO 2017/063663a1, WO 2016/058879 a1, WO 2016/058956 a 1. Surface cleaning machines are likewise known from WO 2016/058907a 1.

From US 4,875,246 a portable floor cleaning appliance is known, which has a roller driven by an electric motor.

DE 202009013434U 1 discloses a device for the damp cleaning of floors with brushes that can be rotated about an axis of rotation.

A cleaning machine is known from CN 201197698Y.

From US 6,026,52 an apparatus is known for cleaning floors or other hard surfaces.

A floor cleaning machine having a handle which is pivotably arranged on a base is known from WO 2005/087075 a 1.

Further floor cleaning machines are known from WO 2015/086083 a 1.

A hard floor cleaner is known from US 3,789,449.

CN 107007215 a discloses a floor cleaning robot.

DE 202018104772U 1 discloses a sewage collecting device and a sewage detecting device as well as a cleaning device.

Disclosure of Invention

The object of the invention is to provide a cleaning machine of the type mentioned at the outset which can be operated in a simple manner by means of an articulated arrangement.

This object is achieved according to the invention in the cleaning machine described at the outset in that a connecting element is arranged on the retaining lever arrangement, the connecting element having a first region and a second region, wherein the second region is spaced apart from the first region in the transverse direction and the transverse direction is oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the retaining lever arrangement, the connecting element being connected via the second region to a joint of a joint arrangement, to which a pivot axis is assigned, wherein, in particular, the joint is a first joint of the joint arrangement, which has a first pivot axis, and the connecting element is connected via the first region to the retaining lever arrangement.

In a simple manner, a cleaning machine can be realized by the articulation of the retaining rod arrangement with the cleaning head via the connecting element, in which cleaning machine the cleaning head can be deflected over the surface to be cleaned, in particular via a deflection on the retaining rod arrangement.

The height of the cleaning head between the lower side and the upper side can be kept small by the connecting element. This results in good downward travel capability under furniture or the like.

The fastening device can be realized in a simple manner via the connecting element in order to fasten the retaining bar arrangement in the oriented position and in particular in the upright position relative to the cleaning head.

Via the connecting element, a hinge assembly can be formed, which can be realized in a structurally simple and space-saving manner. In particular, a hinge assembly may be provided, which has (at least) a first hinge part and a second hinge part. Thus, an optimized operability is obtained.

The pivoting device can be used to pivot the holding rod arrangement in such a way that the lowest height of the cleaning machine in this pivoted position (the "second position" of the holding rod arrangement relative to the cleaning head) is achieved. For this purpose, it is then not necessary to provide a recess for accommodating the retaining rod arrangement, in particular on the cleaning head. The cleaning head can thus again be optimally designed for cleaning tasks.

In particular, the connecting element is designed as a dog-ear element or as an arch element. In this way, a distance can be obtained in a simple manner between the first region fixed to the retaining bar arrangement and the second region fixed to the hinge.

In one embodiment, the second region is arranged at an angle relative to the first region, wherein the angle is in particular an obtuse angle. Here, the angle relates to the envelope plane of the first region and the second region; the envelope plane lies within said angle. The envelope plane may be a tangential plane on the first region or the second region, for example in the case of an arcuate element. A space-saving configuration is obtained by the obtuse angle. There may also be a cross-piece between the first region and the second region. The offset of the first region on the second region can be achieved via the transverse web.

In particular, the first region of the connecting element is oriented coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the retaining rod arrangement. This results in a structurally simple construction of the cleaning machine.

Advantageously, at least one cleaning tool is arranged on the cleaning head, which has at least one of the following:

the pivot axis of the hinge is oriented at least approximately parallel to the flat surface on which the cleaning head together with the at least one cleaning tool is supported for a normal cleaning operation;

the oscillation axis is oriented at least approximately parallel to the envelope plane of the at least one cleaning tool with respect to the contact surface to be cleaned;

the oscillation axis is oriented at least approximately parallel to the rotational axis of the at least one cleaning tool;

the oscillation axis is oriented at least approximately parallel to the width direction of the cleaning head between the first and second lateral sides;

under normal cleaning operation, the axis of oscillation is oriented transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the straight forward direction of travel of the cleaning head;

the pivot axis is located within the cleaning head and in particular between the lower side of the cleaning head and the upper side of the cleaning head with respect to the height direction between the lower side of the cleaning head and the upper side of the cleaning head;

the cleaning head has a front end and a rear end, wherein it extends in a longitudinal direction between the front end and the rear end, and the oscillation axis is transverse, and in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal direction of the cleaning head;

the hinge and/or the swing axis are located between the front end and the rear end of the cleaning head and are in particular located midway between the front end and the rear end or closer to midway than the front end and the rear end with respect to the longitudinal direction of the cleaning head;

the hinge and/or the swing axis are closer to the rear end than to the front end with respect to the longitudinal direction of the cleaning head.

The pivot axis is, for example, a first pivot axis via which a height adaptation of the height of an operator standing on the surface to be cleaned can be achieved. The cleaning movement can be performed with corresponding adaptability.

Advantageously, the connecting element has a concave opening towards the rear end of the cleaning head. In particular, on the concave opening, the connecting element is concave with respect to the osculating curve.

It is more particularly advantageous if a recess is arranged or formed on the cleaning head, in which the hinge element is positioned, wherein the second region sinks, in particular at least in partial regions, into the recess. A sunken hinge can thus be realized. The height of the cleaning head can thereby be kept small. An optimized space utilization is obtained.

Advantageously, the axis of oscillation is located in or below the cavity. A compact construction of the cleaning head is thereby obtained. The recess means here that, in the height direction between the underside and the upper side of the cleaning head, the pivot axis lies below the recess with respect to this height direction.

It is more particularly advantageous if the retaining lever device has a (characteristic-protruding) first position about the pivot axis, which first position has at least one of the following:

the retaining bar arrangement is positioned transversely to the cleaning head with respect to the longitudinal direction of the retaining bar arrangement, wherein the angle of the longitudinal direction of the retaining bar arrangement with respect to the cleaning head is in particular in the range between 75 ° and 105 ° and is, for example, at least about 90 °;

the cleaning machine has a maximum height in the height direction between the lower side of the cleaning head and the upper side of the cleaning head;

the second region of the connecting element is positioned transversely to the cleaning head;

-with respect to the female opening of the connecting element between the first region and the second region, the second region of the connecting element is oriented obtusely with respect to the cleaning head;

the obtuse angle of the second region relative to the orientation of the cleaning head corresponds to the difference of 270 ° and the obtuse angle between the first region and the second region.

The first position is a parked position with respect to the retaining bar arrangement of the cleaning head. In the height direction (which extends between the underside of the cleaning head and the upper side of the cleaning head), the cleaning machine has its largest dimension in particular.

Advantageously, a fixing device is provided for the non-positive fixing of the first position. A parking position is thereby obtained in which the retaining bar arrangement in the first position is retained. By means of the force-fitting fastening, the fastening device is constructed in a simple manner and can be operated in a simple manner by the operator.

In particular, the fastening device is designed such that the first position is maintained when the cleaning head is placed on a floor which is inclined by 10 ° relative to the horizontal in the direction of gravity. By the cleaning head resting correspondingly on an inclined floor, the retaining bar arrangement can in principle "fall down" out of the first position due to its own weight. The fixing means are thus dimensioned such that no such automatic "dropping" out of the first position occurs upon tilting by 10 ° (or more). It has been proven that a corresponding force (such that it is required to keep the bar arrangement out of the first position even when the cleaning head is resting on a flat floor) can be applied in a simple manner by the operator, wherein, on the other hand, the first position is sufficiently stationary.

In one embodiment, the fastening device has a first element arranged or formed in the cleaning head and a second element arranged or formed on the connecting element, wherein the first element and the second element cooperate for the non-positive fastening of the first position. This makes it possible to realize the fixing device in a structurally simple manner and in a space-saving manner.

In one embodiment, the second element is arranged or formed on the second region of the connecting element. This results in a compact and space-saving construction of the surface cleaning machine.

The fastening device has, for example, a magnet arrangement. In this way, a force-locking fastening can be achieved in a simple manner via a magnetic holding force.

Advantageously, the first element is or comprises a magnet which is arranged on the cleaning head and the second element is a holding element for the magnet, wherein, in particular, the connecting element is configured as a holding element. This makes it possible to realize the fixing device in a structurally simple manner. It is not necessary to provide a form closure or the like. The operator can operate the fixing device in a simple manner.

It has proven advantageous if the magnet is part of a multilayer magnet system. The magnet is positioned between two flat iron poles, for example as a magnetic sheet. The flat iron pole can absorb the magnetic current of the magnet and obtain a large holding force.

Advantageously, at least one cleaning tool is arranged on the cleaning head, the retaining bar arrangement having a second position with respect to the pivot axis and at least one of the following:

the first region of the retaining rod arrangement and/or the connecting element is oriented at least approximately parallel to the envelope plane of the at least one cleaning tool with respect to the longitudinal axis of the retaining rod arrangement;

the cleaning machine has a minimum height H in the height direction between the lower side of the cleaning head and the upper side of the cleaning head;

one area of the retaining bar arrangement faces the at least one cleaning head and is in particular located below the upper side of the cleaning head;

the second region of the connecting element is oriented at a zero or acute angle relative to the cleaning head with respect to the female opening of the connecting element between the first and second regions;

the acute angle of the second region relative to the orientation of the cleaning head corresponds to the difference of 180 ° and the obtuse angle between the first region and the second region of the connecting element;

the retaining bar arrangement does not project beyond the upper side of the cleaning head or at most 5 cm.

In the second position of the retaining lever arrangement relative to the cleaning head, the cleaning machine has in particular a minimum height in the respective height direction. Thereby obtaining good downward travelability under furniture or the like.

Advantageously, the holding rod arrangement can be pivoted about a pivot axis between a first position and a second position, wherein in particular the pivot range between the first position and the second position is in the range between 80 ° and 100 ° and is, for example, at least approximately 90 °. This achieves an optimized operability. On the one hand, for example, the adaptability of the operator height is obtained. On the other hand, an optimized downward travelability under furniture or the like is obtained.

It is particularly advantageous if the pivot device is arranged and designed in such a way that the pivoting of the cleaning head is carried out on the surface to be cleaned via the pivoting of the retaining bar device. In particular, the cleaning head is supported on the surface to be cleaned via at least two cleaning roller units. Simple operation is thereby obtained. For example, the movement of the cleaning head over the surface to be cleaned may be driven.

In particular, the joint arrangement has a joint as a first joint with a first pivot axis and a second joint with a second pivot axis, the second pivot axis being oriented transversely to the first pivot axis. If, for example, the first pivot axis is oriented parallel to the envelope plane of the at least one cleaning tool, then the height adaptation can be carried out, in particular by the operator, via this first pivot axis. Steering can be achieved in a simple manner via the second pivot axis.

It is more particularly advantageous if the second pivot axis intersects the first pivot axis or has a distance of at most 2cm, in particular at most 1cm, from the first pivot axis. Thereby effecting steering of the cleaning head over the surface to be cleaned via steering of the retaining bar arrangement.

For the same reason, it is advantageous if the second pivot axis runs through the second region of the connecting element. The hinge arrangement can thus be realized in a simple and space-saving construction.

For example, provision is made for a joint element of the second joint to be arranged on the second region of the connecting element, which joint element enables a swiveling movement about the second swiveling axis, and in particular for a joint part of the first joint to be arranged on the second region, which joint part enables a swiveling movement about the first swiveling axis, wherein in particular the joint parts of the first joint and of the second joint are realized in a single part or have a distance of at most 5 cm. This makes it possible to achieve that the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis intersect or have only a small distance of at most 2 cm. The respective hinge means can be designed in a space-saving manner and can be positioned on the cleaning head in a correspondingly space-saving manner.

In a cleaning machine comprising a cleaning head, a retaining bar arrangement and an articulation arrangement about which the retaining bar arrangement is pivotably articulated on the cleaning head, the aforementioned object is also achieved by at least one of the following:

the articulated arrangement is positioned between the first cleaning tool and the second cleaning tool with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cleaning head, wherein the cleaning tools are in particular configured as cleaning rollers;

the articulated arrangement is positioned above the tank arrangement for dirty liquid with respect to a height direction of the cleaning head between the underside of the cleaning head and the upper side of the cleaning head;

the articulated arrangement is positioned above the drive arrangement with respect to the height direction of the cleaning head between the underside of the cleaning head and the upper side of the cleaning head;

-assigning a free space to the drive means, the hinge means being positioned at least partially within the free space.

The hinge device can thus be constructed in a structurally simple manner and in a space-saving manner. The hinge assembly can be positioned on the cleaning head in a space-saving manner. The cleaning head can thus be constructed again at a low height. Simple operability is obtained for the operator.

In one embodiment, the hinge device is assigned a cladding, which is positioned in particular on the cleaning head and the retaining rod arrangement. The hinge device can thereby be sealed in a liquid-tight manner.

The invention also provides a cleaning machine of the type mentioned above, in which a cleaning head with the lowest height can be constructed.

This object is achieved in the cleaning machine described at the outset or additionally by the drive device having a drive motor which is positioned between the first roller unit and the second roller unit with respect to the longitudinal direction of the cleaning head, the drive device comprising a transmission by means of which a torque of the drive motor can be transmitted to the first roller unit and the second roller unit, and the transmission comprising a reduction gear, wherein the rotational speed of the first roller unit and the rotational speed of the second roller unit are made smaller than the motor rotational speed of the drive motor.

By applying a drive motor with a relatively high rotational speed, which may typically be 6400 revolutions per minute, the drive motor may be realized in a small geometry. Torque can be transmitted to the roller unit via a gear having a reduction gear, and here a rotation of the roller unit can be achieved with a lower rotational speed, for example, typically 500 revolutions per minute.

Hereby a cleaning head with less space requirements can be achieved. In particular, the cleaning head can be realized with a lower height between the lower side and the upper side. Thereby obtaining good downward travelability.

Furthermore, it is possible to design the roller unit via the drive such that cleaning close to the edge can be achieved on the lateral side via the roller unit. Cleaning of the near edges on the front and rear ends can also be achieved in a simple manner. The intermediate coupling can be realized in a simple manner in particular by means of a transmission.

Advantageously, the reduction gear mechanism has a reduction ratio of the rotational speed of the drive motor to the rotational speed of the roller in the range between 1:10 and 1:15, and in particular at least approximately 1:12.5, wherein in particular the rotational speed of the roller is in the range between 400 and 600 revolutions per minute. This makes it possible to use a drive motor with a relatively high rotational speed, which has a small geometry.

In one embodiment, the transmission is configured such that the first roller unit and the second roller unit rotate in opposite directions. This achieves an optimum cleaning effect. For example, specific surface regions which are passed over by the first roller unit and the second roller unit in succession can be cleaned "twice".

The reduction gear mechanism is advantageously designed in a multi-stage manner and in particular in a three-stage manner. This results in a space-saving construction.

In one embodiment, the transmission has a pinion gear system that functions as a two-stage reduction transmission and has a belt system that functions as a single-stage reduction transmission, wherein the belt system torque is operatively coupled to the pinion gear system. This results in a space-saving construction of the transmission. Torque can be transmitted along the longitudinal region in a simple manner via a belt system. The transmission can thus be positioned within the cleaning head in a space-saving manner.

In particular, the belt systems (e.g., the first portion and the second portion) are torque-operatively coupled to respective shafts of respective roller units. Thus, torque can be transmitted to the roller unit at a distance from the drive motor. Thereby, for example, close-edge cleaning can be obtained on the front and rear ends of the cleaning head with respect to the roller unit. Furthermore, an intermediate coupling can be realized in a simple manner via a belt system for transmitting the torque of the drive motor to the roller unit. The first roller unit and the second roller unit can be driven into a rotational movement via a drive motor.

In one embodiment, the pinion system has a first gear-pinion assembly coupled to the drive motor and a second gear-pinion assembly coupled to the first gear-pinion assembly and to the belt system. This makes it possible to implement a two-stage reduction gear in a simple manner. Furthermore, the first roller unit and the second roller unit can be driven in a simple manner.

In particular, a third pinion gear assembly is also provided for driving the first and second roller units, which is coupled to the second pinion gear assembly and which is coupled to the belt system. This makes it possible to realize the counter rotation of the roller units in a simple manner.

In one embodiment, the second pinion gear assembly is coupled with a first portion of the belt system, which is coupled with the first roller unit, and the third pinion gear assembly is coupled with a second portion of the belt system, which is coupled with the second roller unit. Thus, the torque of the drive motor can be transmitted not only to the first roller unit but also to the second roller unit. They may be positioned spaced apart from each other. Thereby, the cleaning head can be supported on the surface to be cleaned only via the first roller unit and the second roller unit. It is not necessary to provide support wheels or the like that may mark the surface to be cleaned. Furthermore, cleaning close to the edge can be achieved in a simple manner not only with respect to the front end but also with respect to the rear end and also with respect to the lateral sides.

It is preferable to set at least one of the following:

the drive axis of the drive motor is oriented parallel to the axis of rotation of the roller unit;

the drive axis of the drive motor is oriented parallel to the oscillation axis of the articulation (first oscillation axis);

the drive axis of the drive motor and the swivel axis (first swivel axis) have a spacing of at most 5 cm.

Therefore, the cleaning head can be configured with a relatively low height and good downward traveling performance.

In one embodiment, a first roller unit and a second roller unit, each of which is formed in two parts, are arranged on the cleaning head, wherein the drive is coupled to the respective roller unit in a centered manner. Intermediate driving of the roller unit can thus be achieved. It is thus not necessary to provide a suspension or a drive near the edge or a bearing for the roller unit. They can reach up to the lateral sides of the cleaning head. Thereby enabling cleaning laterally close to the edge.

Advantageously, the roller unit reaches up to the end face of the cleaning head. Cleaning laterally close to the edge can thereby be achieved.

In one embodiment, a first roller unit and a second roller unit are provided, wherein the first roller unit and/or the second roller unit is/are designed as a cleaning roller and in particular has a textile lining. In principle, it is also possible for the first roller unit and the second roller unit to be designed as sweeping rollers and, for example, to be provided with brushes. For example, it is also possible for the roller unit to be provided with a textile lining and to be designed as a scrubbing roller, and for the second roller unit to be designed as a sweeping roller.

Advantageously, the cleaning head has a height in the height direction of at most 20cm or at most 15cm or at most 14cm or at most 13cm or at most 12cm or at most 11cm between the lower side of the cleaning head and the upper side of the cleaning head. Thereby a smaller lower travel height is obtained and it is possible to travel under furniture or the like.

In principle, cleaning machines with a drive device (without a retaining bar device) can be designed as self-propelled and self-steering systems. Which has a smaller lower travel height.

Alternatively, the cleaning mechanism can be a manually guided surface cleaning machine, in particular for floors and hard floors.

Drawings

The following description of the preferred embodiments serves to further illustrate the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the figure:

fig. 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a cleaning machine with a hinge device, wherein the pendulability of the retaining bar device about a first swivel axis (which is perpendicular to the drawing plane) is shown;

fig. 2 shows the cleaning machine according to fig. 1, wherein the pendability of the retaining bar arrangement about the second pivot axis is shown;

FIG. 3 shows a partial view of an embodiment of a cleaning machine having a cleaning head according to the present invention;

figure 4 shows a perspective partial view of the cleaning machine according to figure 3, with the retaining bar arrangement in the first position and the cladding removed;

figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the cleaning machine according to figure 3;

FIG. 6 shows a partial view of region A according to FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 shows the cleaning machine according to FIG. 3 in a representation corresponding to FIG. 4, wherein the retaining bar arrangement is in a second position relative to the cleaning head;

figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the cleaning machine according to figure 2, the retaining bar arrangement being in a second position relative to the cleaning head;

fig. 9 shows an enlargement of the region B according to fig. 8;

figure 10 shows an embodiment of a hinge arrangement for the cleaning machine according to figure 3;

FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view along the line 11-11 according to FIG. 10;

figure 12 shows a view of the hinge according to figure 11 in direction C;

figure 13 shows a variant of the embodiment of the cleaning machine in partial view;

fig. 14 shows an embodiment of a combination of a drive and a roller unit for the cleaning machine according to fig. 3;

fig. 15 shows a view of a drive device according to fig. 14;

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view similar to FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional view in the plane indicated at 17-17 according to FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 shows a cross-sectional view of the plane identified at 18-18 according to FIG. 16;

fig. 19(a), (b) show side views of an embodiment of the connecting element between the retaining lever arrangement and the cleaning head in different oscillation positions;

fig. 20(a), (b) show a further embodiment of the connecting element in different swing positions; and is

Fig. 21(a), (b) show further embodiments of the connecting element in different swing positions.

Detailed Description

The exemplary embodiment of a cleaning machine shown in fig. 1 and 2 and designated by 10 is a surface cleaning machine for cleaning surfaces, in particular floors, in particular hard floors in this case.

The cleaningmachine 10 includes a cleaninghead 12. On the cleaning head 12 (at least one)cleaning tool 14 is arranged.

In the illustrated embodiment, the firstcleaning roller unit 16a and the secondcleaning roller unit 16b are used as cleaning tools. The firstcleaning roller unit 16a and the secondcleaning roller unit 16b are spaced apart from each other. During operation of the cleaningmachine 10, the cleaninghead 12 and in this case theentire cleaning machine 10 is supported on thesurface 18 to be cleaned via thecleaning roller units 16a, 16 b.

The cleaningmachine 10 is manually guided. A retainingrod arrangement 20 is arranged on the cleaninghead 12. Anoperator 21 may hold the cleaningmachine 10 at ahandle 22 arranged on the holdingbar arrangement 20.

The cleaningmachine 10 is configured in terms of its dimensions such that, when the cleaningroller units 16a, 16b are supported on thesurface 18 to be cleaned, theoperator 21 can comfortably carry out a cleaning process on thesurface 18 to be cleaned using the bent gripping arms. The length of the cleaningmachine 10 along the longitudinal axis between the cleaningroller units 16a, 16b and thehandle 22 is in particular in the range from 60cm to 130 cm. In particular, an operating element and a display element are arranged on thehandle 22.

The retainingbar arrangement 20 is hinged to the cleaninghead 12 via ahinge arrangement 24. Thehinge arrangement 24 may enable the swingable nature of the retainingbar arrangement 20 relative to the cleaninghead 12.

In one embodiment, thehinge assembly 24 includes afirst hinge 26 having afirst swing axis 28. The ability to pivot about thefirst pivot axis 28 is indicated in fig. 1. In the schematic illustration of fig. 1, thefirst pivot axis 28 is perpendicular to the plane of the drawing.

The height positioning of thehandle 22 relative to the surface to be cleaned 18 on which thecleaning head 12 stands via thecleaning roller units 16a, 16b can be adjusted by swinging about thefirst swing axis 28. Furthermore, it is thus also possible to match the height of theoperator 21 and to "compensate" for the movements of the operator during the cleaning operation.

The cleaningmachine 10 has a straight forward direction oftravel 30.

In particular, the cleaningroller units 16a, 16b are driven into a rotational movement. The straight-ahead direction oftravel 30 is determined in particular by the direction of rotation of the cleaningroller units 16a, 16 b.

Furthermore, the cleaningmachine 10 is assigned a straight-back direction oftravel 32, which is opposite to the straight-forward direction oftravel 30.

Directions 30 and/or 32 may be those directions in which thecleaning machine 10 is automatically moved, or they may correspond to a propulsion direction that must be activated by an operator.

Thejoint arrangement 24 with the first joint 26, which can be pivoted about thefirst pivot axis 28, is designed in particular such that the retaininglever arrangement 20 can be pivoted between afirst position 34 and a second position, which is designated byreference numeral 36. The range of oscillation between thefirst position 34 and thesecond position 36 is in particular in the range between 75 ° and 105 °. In one embodiment (see fig. 1), the range of oscillation between thefirst position 34 and thesecond position 36 is 90 °.

In thesecond position 36, the holdinglever arrangement 20 with thehandle 22 points in particular in the direction of the straight-back travel direction 32.

In thefirst position 34, the retainingbar arrangement 20 is oriented, in particular, at least approximately perpendicular to the cleaninghead 21.

Thehinge assembly 24 further includes a second hinge 38 (fig. 2) having a second swing axis 40. The holdingrod arrangement 20 is pivotable about a second pivot axis 40 by means of a second joint 38. The second pivot axis 40 is oriented transversely to thefirst pivot axis 28.

In one embodiment, thesecond hinge 38 is swingable via thefirst hinge 26 such that the second swing axis 40 is a spatially non-fixed axis.

A transverse pivoting is possible with respect to an operator standing behind the cleaninghead 12 on thesurface 18 to be cleaned via asecond articulation 38 which can be pivoted about a second pivot axis 40 (see fig. 2).

The swing range is for example +/-45 deg. with respect to the basic position.

Thearticulation 24 is designed in particular such that theoperator 21 can steer the cleaninghead 12 over thesurface 18 to be cleaned by way of steering the retainingrod arrangement 20. The cleaninghead 12 follows a steering movement of the retainingbar arrangement 20 initiated by theoperator 21.

In one embodiment, a wettingdevice 42 is provided, via which a cleaning liquid (which may be fresh water or fresh water mixed with a cleaning agent) is supplied to the cleaningroller units 16a, 16 b. The wettingapparatus 42 comprises atank arrangement 44 for the cleaning liquid. Thetank arrangement 44 for cleaning liquid is arranged in particular on the holdingrod arrangement 20. A delivery device is provided via which cleaning liquid can be delivered to the cleaninghead 12.

Atank arrangement 46 for dirty liquid is provided which is loaded with dirty liquid. Here, apot device 46 for dirty liquid is arranged on the holdingrod arrangement 20. In the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 1 and 2, atank arrangement 46 for dirty liquid is located on the cleaninghead 12 between the first and secondcleaning roller units 16a, 16 b.

In one exemplary embodiment, it is provided that dirty liquid is suctioned and in this case in particular from the cleaningroller units 16a, 16b and is conveyed into thetank arrangement 46 for dirty liquid.

For example, it is also possible to remove dirty liquid from the cleaningroller units 16a, 16b and to throw it to some extent into thetank arrangement 46 for dirty liquid, without it being necessary to provide a suction flow application to the cleaningroller units 16a, 16 b.

One embodiment of a cleaning machine according to the present invention is a surface cleaning machine 50 (fig. 3 to 10). Thesurface cleaning machine 10 is particularly useful for hard floor cleaning.

The basic design with the retaining bar arrangement and the cleaning head has already been described above in connection with the cleaningmachine 10.

The cleaningmachine 50 includes a cleaninghead 52. This is illustrated in partial view in fig. 3.

The cleaninghead 52 has a headmain body 54. Afirst shaft 56 is disposed on the headmain body 54. Thefirst shaft 56 is mounted so as to be rotatable about a first axis ofrotation 58. The firstcleaning roller unit 60 is disposed on thefirst shaft 56 as a first cleaning tool.

Spaced from thefirst shaft 56, asecond shaft 62 is rotatably supported on thehead body 54 about a secondrotational axis 64. The secondcleaning roller unit 66 is disposed on thesecond shaft 62 as a second cleaning means. The firstcleaning roller unit 60 and the secondcleaning roller unit 66 havecylindrical sleeves 68, respectively, on which cleaningmedia 70 are disposed.

In one embodiment, the cleaningmedium 70 is a textile material such as a microfiber material.

In principle, it is also possible for the firstcleaning roller unit 60 and/or the secondcleaning roller unit 66 to be designed as a brush roller or sweeping roller.

The first and second axes ofrotation 58, 64 are spaced apart from one another along a longitudinal direction 72 (see fig. 4). Thelongitudinal direction 72 is the longitudinal direction of the cleaninghead 52 between thefront end 74 and therear end 76.

In particular, the straight-ahead direction oftravel 30 is parallel to thelongitudinal direction 72. Accordingly, the straight-back direction oftravel 32 is parallel to thelongitudinal direction 72.

In addition, awidth direction 78 is assigned to the cleaninghead 52. Thewidth direction 78 is perpendicular to thelongitudinal direction 72 and here parallel to the first or second axis ofrotation 58, 64. The cleaninghead 52 extends in thewidth direction 78 between a firstlateral side 80 and an opposing secondlateral side 82.

In one embodiment, the cleaninghead 52 and the cleaningroller units 60, 66 are designed in such a way that they extend up to the respectivetransverse side 80, 82 and in particular are at least approximately flush with the firsttransverse side 80 and the secondtransverse side 82. A cleaning process almost close to the edge can be achieved.

The headmain body 54 has acover member 84. Thecover member 84 at least partially covers the firstcleaning roller unit 60 and the secondcleaning roller unit 66 upward.

Afree space 86 is formed between thecover member 84, the firstcleaning roller unit 60, and the secondcleaning roller unit 66. In this free space, atank arrangement 86 for dirty liquid (corresponding to thetank arrangement 46 for dirty liquid in the cleaning machine 10) is located. Fig. 7 shows atank arrangement 46 for dirty liquid. Thetank arrangement 86 is not shown in fig. 3 to 5 and 8.

Thetank arrangement 86 for dirty liquid can be removed from the cleaninghead 52 for emptying and, if necessary, cleaning. Which can be removed from thehead body 54, for example, downward, or pulled out from the side.

In principle, it is possible to suck in particular dirty liquid from the cleaningroller units 60, 66. For this purpose, a corresponding suction unit is provided.

In one embodiment, the removal of the soiling solution from the cleaningroller units 60, 66 is carried out via a scraping plate which is assigned to the respectivecleaning roller unit 60, 66 and which, for example, dips into the textile lining (and the cleaning medium 70). This removed dirty liquid may then be pumped and transferred to thetank arrangement 86 for dirty liquid.

In an alternative embodiment, the dirty liquid is removed from the respective wiper blade and thetank arrangement 86 for dirty liquid is arranged in such a way that the removed dirty liquid can be "thrown" into thetank arrangement 86 for dirty liquid to some extent without the suction stream being applied by the suction assembly.

The cleaninghead 52 has alower side 88 and an upper side 90 (see, e.g., fig. 5). Theunderside 88 defines an envelope plane 92 (see fig. 5) of thescrub roller units 60, 66.

When the cleaninghead 52 is placed as intended on thesurface 18 to be cleaned by means of the cleaningroller units 60, 66, theenvelope plane 92 is directed towards thesurface 18 to be cleaned. When the surface to be cleaned 18 is flat, then theenvelope plane 92 overlaps the flat surface.

Theupper side 90 is spaced apart from thelower side 88 in aheight direction 94. Theheight direction 94 extends perpendicular to thelongitudinal direction 72 and perpendicular to the width direction.

The height in theheight direction 94, and thus the ground clearance H (fig. 8), is defined as the spacing between thelower side 88 and theupper side 90.

In one embodiment, the spacing H is defined by ahinge arrangement 96 which is arranged on or in the region of theupper side 90 and may have portions which can project beyond the (housing) upper surface of thehead body 54.

The height H and theheight direction 94 of the cleaninghead 52 can be regarded here in particular as the height between theenvelope plane 92 and anenvelope plane 110 of the cleaninghead 52 at the highest point of its upper side 90 (see fig. 5 and 8).

The height H is in particular at most 20cm and preferably at most 15cm and in particular at most 14cm or at most 13cm, or at most 12cm and in particular at most 11cm or at most 10 cm. This makes it possible to travel well below furniture or the like having a bearing column.

It is also possible to arrange one or more sweeping elements on the cleaninghead 52, by means of which coarse dirt can be conveyed to the respectivecleaning roller unit 60, 66.

See WO 2019/048496A 1, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The retainingbar arrangement 100 is pivotably hinged to the cleaninghead 52 via ahinge arrangement 96.

The holdingbar arrangement 100 is constructed in principle in the same way as the holdingbar arrangement 20 and is used to guide thesurface cleaning machine 50 on thesurface 18 to be cleaned such that an operator can stand on thesurface 18 to be cleaned;surface cleaning machine 50 is manually guided.

Thehinge assembly 96 includes afirst hinge 102 having afirst swing axis 104. Furthermore, it comprises asecond articulation 106 with a second axis ofoscillation 108.

Thefirst swing axis 104 corresponds to thefirst swing axis 28 of the cleaningmachine 10. Thesecond swing axis 108 corresponds to the second swing axis 40 of the cleaningmachine 10.

On the cleaninghead 52, acavity 112 is formed on theupper side 90. Thecavity 112 is recessed with respect to theupper surface 98 of the cleaninghead 52. Thefirst hinge 102 is seated within thepocket 112 and is thereby lowered relative to theupper surface 98.

Thecavity 112 has anopening 114 in theupper surface 98.

In one embodiment, thefirst hinge 102 comprises apin element 116 which is oriented parallel to thefirst pivot axis 104 and is arranged set back in thecavity 112 towards thesurface 98 and here also towards theopening 114. Thepin member 116 is anti-rotational relative to the cleaninghead 52.

Theshaft 118 is mounted on thepin element 116 so as to be pivotable about thefirst pivot axis 104. Theshaft 118 surrounds and receives thepin element 116. Theshaft 118 is also seated within thecavity 112.

Theshaft 118 is in particular designed as an outer shaft or as an external housing for thepin element 116.

The first articulation 102 (first pivot bearing) with thepin element 116 and theshaft 118 is arranged in such a way that thefirst pivot axis 104 is located in the cleaninghead 52. Thefirst pivot axis 104 is oriented parallel to the first or second axis ofrotation 58, 64. The first axis of oscillation is oriented parallel to theenvelope plane 92. The first pivot axis is oriented perpendicular to thelongitudinal direction 72. The first pivot axis is oriented parallel to thewidth direction 78. The first oscillation axis is oriented parallel to theenvelope plane 110.

The first pivot axis extends within therecess 112 and is set back here in particular with respect to theupper side 90 and here theenvelope plane 110. The first pivot axis in particular passes through thehead body 54.

Theshaft 118 is connected to a connecting member 120 (see also fig. 19(a), 19 (b)). The connectingelement 120 is in turn connected to the retainingbar arrangement 100 at theunderside 122 of the retainingbar arrangement 100.

The connectingelement 120 is designed as acorner element 124.

The connecting element 120 (see, e.g., fig. 6) has afirst region 126 and asecond region 128. Thefirst region 126 and thesecond region 128 are connected to one another in particular in one piece. Thefirst region 126 and thesecond region 128 are preferably made of a flat material.

Thefirst region 126 and thesecond region 128 are offset from each other in a transverse direction 129 (see fig. 19(a)), that is, are spaced apart from each other in thetransverse direction 129. Thetransverse direction 129 is transverse and, for example, perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis 146 of the retainingbar arrangement 100.

Thefirst region 126 and thesecond region 128 are oriented at anobtuse angle 130 with respect to each other in order to obtain a lateral misalignment (in the lateral direction 129). The obtuse angle 130 (see fig. 6) lies in particular in the range between 120 ° and 150 °. In a particular embodiment, theobtuse angle 130 is about 135 °.

The dog-ear member 124 defines aconcave opening 132 at theobtuse angle 130. Thefemale opening 132 may be considered the inside of a wedge or arrowhead. Theosculating element 124 has a concave shape in the form of atight curve 131 at theobtuse angle 130, i.e. at theconcave opening 132.

The connectingelement 120 is connected to thefirst articulation 102 via asecond region 128 and is connected to theshaft 118 there. With thefirst region 120, the connecting element is connected to theunderside 122 of the retainingbar arrangement 100.

In one embodiment, second joint 106 is designed in such a way thatsecond region 128 of connectingelement 120 can pivot relative toshaft 118 aboutsecond pivot axis 108. Thesecond hinge 106 is disposed on theshaft 118.

In one embodiment, apin element 134 is arranged on theshaft 118, which pin element is oriented parallel to thesecond pivot axis 108.

Thesecond region 128 of the connectingelement 120 has anopening 136 through which thepin element 134 passes. The sinking of thepin element 134 is prevented via a securingelement 138 arranged on thepin element 134. The fixingelement 138 forms an axial fixing about thesecond pivot axis 108.

Thesecond region 128 with itsopening 136 forms an externally disposed shaft for aprotective element 138, which can be pivoted about thesecond pivot axis 108.

Thesecond hinge 106 is positioned with thepin element 134 and thesecond region 128 at least partially submerged into thepocket 112 at theopening 136.

Thesecond pivot axis 108 is oriented perpendicular to thefirst pivot axis 104.

It is provided that thefirst pivot axis 104 and thesecond pivot axis 108 intersect or at least have a small distance from one another. The distance is in particular at most 2cm and preferably at most 1 cm.

It is thus possible, as already described above in connection with the cleaningmachine 10, to steer on the retainingbar arrangement 100 by an operator, so that the cleaninghead 52 is steered over thesurface 18 to be cleaned by the operator.

Thefirst swing axis 104 is a fixed swing axis with respect to the cleaninghead 52.

Thesecond swing axis 108 is a spatially variable axis with respect to the cleaninghead 52; its positioning in space depends on the pivot position on thefirst articulation 102 about thefirst pivot axis 104.

In the illustrated embodiment, theshaft 118 is a common hinge element of the first andsecond hinges 102, 106. Which forms a swingable part of thefirst hinge 102 and a part that is stationary with respect to thesecond hinge 106, about which thesecond region 128 can swing. Thepin member 134 is fixedly connected to theshaft 118.

In principle, it is possible that no common joint element is provided. In this case, the respective connecting sections preferably have a spacing of at most 5cm, if they are not realized on the common section.

In principle, it is also possible for the second joint 106 to be arranged, for example, on thefirst region 126 of the connectingelement 120 or on the retaininglever arrangement 100.

The intersection or the small distance (up to 2cm) of thefirst pivot axis 104 and thesecond pivot axis 108 can be achieved in a simple manner by the second joint 106 being arranged on the first joint 102.

The retainingbar arrangement 100 has a first position 140 (fig. 3 to 6, fig. 19(a)) of characteristic projection and a second position 142 (fig. 10 to 12, fig. 19(b)) of characteristic projection with respect to the cleaninghead 52.

Thefirst position 140 and thesecond position 142 are characteristic positions with respect to the ability to swing about thefirst swing axis 104. Thefirst position 140 corresponds to thefirst position 34 of the cleaningmachine 10. Thesecond position 142 corresponds to thesecond position 36 of the cleaning machine.

The holdingrod arrangement 100 can be pivoted about thesecond pivot axis 108, for example, by +/-x ° with respect to a basic position 144 (see fig. 2). The base position 144 (fig. 2) is defined as a swing position where the swing angle is zero. x is for example 45 ° or 60 °.

Thefirst position 140 and thesecond position 142 are in particular associated with abasic position 144. The pivoting range of the holdingrod arrangement 100 about thefirst pivot axis 104 between thefirst position 140 and thesecond position 142 lies, for example, in a range between 75 ° and 105 °. In one embodiment, the range of oscillation is at least about 90 ° (see fig. 1).

In thefirst position 140, the retainingbar arrangement 100 is oriented transversely to the cleaninghead 52; the retainingrod device 100 has alongitudinal axis 146 along which the retainingrod device 100 extends. In a spaced apart direction parallel to thelongitudinal axis 146, thehandle 22 is arranged on the retainingrod arrangement 100 at a distance from the cleaninghead 52.

Thefirst region 126 is oriented, in particular, at least approximately parallel to thelongitudinal axis 146.

In thefirst position 140, thelongitudinal axis 146 is oriented, in particular, perpendicular to the cleaninghead 52. In particular, the retainingbar arrangement 100 is oriented with itslongitudinal axis 146 perpendicular to thelongitudinal direction 72 and perpendicular to thewidth direction 78.

Furthermore, in thefirst position 140, the retainingrod arrangement 100 is oriented with itslongitudinal axis 146 transversely and in particular perpendicularly to theenvelope plane 92 and transversely and in particular perpendicularly to theenvelope plane 110.

In thefirst position 140, thefirst region 126 of the connectingelement 120 is oriented transversely to the cleaning head 52 (that is to say transversely to theenvelope plane 92, or transversely to theenvelope plane 110, or transversely to thelongitudinal direction 72 and to the width direction 78). In particular, this orientation is perpendicular to the cleaning head 52 (see for example fig. 6 for this purpose). The corresponding right angle is designated byreference numeral 148.

In thefirst position 140, thesecond region 128 of the connectingelement 120 is oriented at an obtuse angle 150 with respect to the cleaning head 52 (e.g., with respect to the envelope plane 92). The obtuse angle 150 is the angular difference between 270 ° and theobtuse angle 130. When the obtuse angle 150 is designated by α and theobtuse angle 130 is designated by β, then: alpha is 270-beta.

Thefemale opening 132 of the dog-ear element 124 is toward therear end 76 in the first position 140 (see fig. 4). When the dog-ear element 124 is viewed as an arrow-shaped member, the arrow point is directed toward thefront end 74.

Afastening device 152 is provided, which fastens thefirst position 140 of the retainingrod arrangement 100 and in this case in particular in a force-fitting manner.

In one embodiment, thefastening device 152 is designed as a magnet device, wherein thefirst position 140 of the retainingrod arrangement 100 is fixed in a force-locking manner relative to the cleaninghead 52 by means of a magnet retaining force.

In one embodiment, thefixture 152 includes amagnet 154 disposed on the cleaninghead 52. Themagnet 154 is part of a magnet system that is constructed as a multi-layer system and is identified at 156. In thismagnet system 156, themagnet 154 is arranged between twoflat iron poles 158. In themagnet system 156 of the multilayer system, the magnetic force is enhanced.

Themagnet system 156 is arranged in such a way that it acts on thesecond region 128 of the connectingelement 120 in thefirst position 140. In particular, themagnet system 156 is arranged such that in thefirst position 140 there is mechanical contact with thesecond region 128, in particular on the side facing away from theconcave opening 132.

Themagnet system 156 has a magnetic holding force, wherein the holding force acts on thesecond region 128. The connectingelement 120 is made of a corresponding material, for example a ferromagnetic material, in thesecond region 128, whereby a corresponding holding force is effective.

When the retainingbar arrangement 100 is in thefirst position 140 relative to the cleaninghead 52 and thesecond region 128 bears against themagnet system 156, themagnet system 156 provides a corresponding retaining force which secures thefirst position 140. In order to bring the retainingbar arrangement 100 out of thefirst position 140, a specific force consumption is required.

Themagnet system 156 is dimensioned in conjunction with the connectingelement 120, in particular such that, when thesurface cleaning machine 50 is in thefirst position 140 of the holdingrod arrangement 100 relative to the cleaninghead 52 in a fixedfirst position 140 on a floor inclined by 10 ° with respect to the direction of gravitational pull, the holdingrod arrangement 100 is still not moved out of thefirst position 140 by itself (due to gravitational pull). Thus, for this (at least) 10 ° slope, thefirst position 140 is still held fixed.

In the embodiment described, thesecond region 128 of the connectingelement 10 is designed in such a way that it can be held by a magnetic holding force. In principle, it is also possible to arrange additional elements, such as ferromagnetic elements, on thesecond region 128, by means of which a corresponding holding force can be exerted.

Amagnet system 156 is disposed on thepocket 112. Which may be positioned partially within thecavity 112.

In particular, theenvelope plane 110 is arranged through themagnet system 156.

In thefirst position 140, thesurface cleaning machine 50 has its maximum extension in theheight direction 94.

Thesecond position 142 can be realized from thefirst position 140 by a swing around the above-mentioned swing angle, which is, for example, about 90 °.

In thesecond position 142 of the retaining rod arrangement 100 (fig. 7 to 11), thelongitudinal axis 146 of the retainingrod arrangement 100 is oriented at least approximately parallel to the cleaninghead 52, and in particular at least approximately parallel to theenvelope plane 92 or theenvelope plane 110. At least approximately means that a deviation of +/-10 ° or +/-5 ° from the exact parallelism is possible.

In particular, thefirst region 126 of the connectingelement 120 is then oriented at least approximately parallel to the cleaning head 52 (in particular the envelope plane 92).

Thesecond region 128 of the connectingelement 120 is oriented at an acute angle 160 (see fig. 9) relative to the cleaning head 52 (relative to theenvelope plane 92 or the envelope plane 110) in thesecond position 142. Theacute angle 160 corresponds to the difference between 180 ° and theobtuse angle 130 β. Ifacute angle 160 is identified by γ, then γ is 180 ° - β.

Thefemale opening 132 of the connectingelement 120 is such that it "receives" a partial region of theupper side 90 at the recess 112 (see, for example, fig. 9).

In thesecond position 142 of thehold bar arrangement 100, thesurface cleaning machine 50 has its smallest dimension in theheight direction 94. Thesurface cleaning machine 50 has a height H substantially inwardly of thesecond position 142 including the retainingbar arrangement 100.

The retainingbar arrangement 100 has aregion 162 which faces the cleaninghead 52 and which has a transverse extent with respect to thelongitudinal axis 146. Thisregion 162 is formed, for example, on the housing of the holdinglever arrangement 100. In thesecond position 142, theregion 162 is toward therear end 76 of the cleaning head 52 (see, e.g., fig. 8).

In particular, it is also provided that in thesecond position 142, theregion 162 of the retainingbar arrangement 100 is located below theupper side 90 of the cleaninghead 52.

The retainingbar arrangement 100, in particular in connection with the cleaninghead 52, is arranged and designed in such a way that it does not project beyond theenvelope plane 92 with the underside 164 (see fig. 8) and is retracted in particular with respect to this envelope plane.

A pot arrangement for cleaning liquid is arranged on the holdingrod arrangement 100, for example. In one embodiment, a suction set may be disposed on the holdingrod arrangement 100. In the case of the battery-operatedsurface cleaning machine 50, the battery carrier is arranged, in particular, on the holdingrod arrangement 100 together with the battery.

Acoating 166 is arranged between the cleaninghead 52 and the retaining bar arrangement 100 (fig. 3, 5; thiscoating 166 is not shown in fig. 4, 6, 7, 8, 9).

The connectingelement 120 is positioned within thecladding 166. Thecoating 166 is a coating for thehinge device 96. In this case, thecladding 166 contacts the cleaninghead 52, in particular at theupper side 90 orsurface 98, and correspondingly contacts the retainingrod arrangement 100. Thecladding 166 is used for a liquid tight seal.

In particular, thecladding 166 also covers thecavity 112 or itsopening 114.

Thecover 166 is designed, for example, as a fabric or rubber bag.

The connectingelement 120 may be an integrated part of the retainingbar arrangement 100 or, for example, a separate part from the retainingbar arrangement 100, which is connected to the retainingbar arrangement 100 by screwing, welding or the like.

In an alternative embodiment for the connecting element, a connectingelement 120' is provided, which is configured as an arcuate element (fig. 20(a), (b)). Thebow member 120' has a first region 126' connected to the retainingbar arrangement 100 and a second region 128' connected to thehinge arrangement 96. The first region 126 'transitions somewhat continuously into the second region 128'.

With respect to the tangent or envelope plane on the first region 126' and the second region 128', respectively, they form an obtuse angle 130' with each other.

The spacing of the first region 126' in thetransverse direction 129 relative to the second region 128' is achieved by the curved configuration of the connectingelement 120' (caused by the configuration of the arcuate elements). Thereby obtaining the advantages described above in connection with the connectingelement 120; in thefirst position 140 of the retainingbar arrangement 100 relative to the cleaning head 52 (in which the retainingbar arrangement 100 is connected to the cleaninghead 52 via the connectingelement 120'), the fixing means 152 can be realized via the connectingelement 120'. In particular, this region of the connectingelement 120' can serve as a mating element (retaining device) for the magnet.

In the second position 142 (fig. 20(b)), the height of the surface cleaning machine in theheight direction 94 may be kept small. In order to minimize the height in theheight direction 94, the cleaninghead 52 does not have to be modified here with respect to the cleaningroller units 60, 66; in particular, no recesses have to be provided on the cleaninghead 52 in the region of the cleaningroller units 60, 66. The height minimization does not affect the cleaning function or cleaning. The secondcleaning roller unit 66 as a rear cleaning roller unit may be configured the same as the firstcleaning roller unit 60.

In another embodiment of the connectingelement 120 "(fig. 21(a), (b)), afirst region 126" is provided, which is connected to asecond region 128 "via across-over 127". Thefirst region 126 "is connected to the retainingbar arrangement 100. Thesecond region 128 "is connected to thehinge 96. Thefirst region 126 "and thesecond region 128" are not directly connected to each other, but rather across-over 127 "provides a connection region between thefirst region 126" and thesecond region 128 ".

Thefirst region 126 "and thesecond region 128" are, for example, configured as flat elements.

It can also be provided that thecross-over 127 ″ is configured as a flat element.

Thecross-over 127 "is oriented transverse to thefirst region 126" and thesecond region 128 ".

In the embodiment shown in fig. 21(a) and (b), thefirst region 126 "and thesecond region 128" are oriented parallel to each other. Thecross-over 127 "is oriented perpendicular to thefirst region 126" and thesecond region 128 ".

Other embodiments are also possible here, for example Z-shaped.

Thefirst region 126 "and thesecond region 128" are spaced apart from each other in alateral direction 129 based on the cross-connect 127 ".

It is provided here that in a first position 140 (fig. 21(a)) of the retaininglever arrangement 100 relative to the cleaninghead 52, it is oriented transversely to thesecond region 128 ″ and, for example, perpendicularly to the cleaninghead 52.

In thesecond position 142, thesecond region 128 "is oriented at least more than parallel (i.e., at a zero angle or a smaller angle of approximately 0 °) to the cleaninghead 52, for example (fig. 21 (b)).

The advantages set forth in connection with the connectingelement 120 or 120' are obtained with regard to the minimization of the height of the surface cleaning machine in thesecond position 142.

In one embodiment, thecladding 166 is configured as a bellows 168 (fig. 13).

Adrive 170 is arranged on the cleaninghead 52 for rotationally driving thefirst shaft 56 and the second shaft 62 (and thus the firstcleaning roller unit 60 and the second cleaning roller unit 66) (fig. 5, 8, 14 to 18).

Thedrive device 170 is geometrically positioned between the first and secondscrub roller units 60, 66.

Thedrive device 170 includes adrive motor 172, which is an electric motor. Thedrive motor 172 is fed via the mains supply, or in particular a rechargeable battery device is provided, which is positioned in particular on the holdingrod arrangement 100 and supplies thedrive motor 172 with a corresponding battery current.

Thedrive motor 172 has amotor shaft 174. Adrive gear 176 is mounted on themotor shaft 174 in a rotationally fixed manner. Themotor shaft 174 rotates about a rotational axis (drive axis) 178. Therotation axis 178 is in particular parallel to the first and second rotation axes 58, 64 of the respectivecleaning roller unit 60, 66.

The axis ofrotation 178 is in particular parallel to thefirst pivot axis 104.

Thedrive motor 172 is positioned above thetank arrangement 86 for dirty liquid with respect to theheight direction 94.

In one embodiment, the motor speed (the speed of the motor shaft 174) is approximately 6400 revolutions per minute.

The desired rotational speed of thescrub roller units 60, 66 is in the range of 500 revolutions per minute.

The drive means 170 comprises a transmission means 180. Thegear 180 has the task, in particular, of providing a reduction in speed with respect to the rotational speed of themotor shaft 174, bridging the spatial distance between themotor shaft 174 and theshafts 56, 62, and in one embodiment also ensuring the drive of the first and secondcleaning roller units 60, 66 with thesole drive motor 172. Here, especially, the firstcleaning roller unit 60 and the secondcleaning roller unit 66 are provided to rotate opposite to each other.

In fig. 14, a first direction of rotation of the firstcleaning roller unit 60 about the first axis ofrotation 58 is designated withreference numeral 182. A respective second direction ofrotation 184 of the secondscrub roller unit 66 about the second axis ofrotation 64 is indicated withreference numeral 184.

In this embodiment, the first and secondrotational directions 182, 184 are opposite one another, i.e. the cleaningroller units 60, 66 are driven toward one another by thedrive 170.

The direction ofrotation 182, 184 is in particular such that aspecific region 186 on the cleaning roller unit (in the case of the firstcleaning roller unit 60 according to the example of fig. 14) is moved after contacting thesurface 18 to be cleaned in the direction of thetank arrangement 86 for dirty liquid. The path to the dirtyliquid tank arrangement 86 is thus shorter for dirt carried away on thecleaning roller unit 60 than in the case of a reverse direction of rotation.

Thetransmission 180 has apinion gear system 188.Pinion gear system 188 is directly coupled tomotor shaft 174. In particular, thepinion gear system 188 includes a two-stage reduction transmission.

Thetransmission 180 also has abelt system 190. Abelt system 190 is torque effective to couple thepinion gear system 188 with theshafts 56, 62.

In one embodiment,belt system 190 includes afirst portion 192 and asecond portion 194. Afirst portion 192 of thebelt system 190 is torsionally effective to couple thepinion gear system 188 with thefirst shaft 56. Asecond portion 194 of thebelt system 190 is torsionally effective to couple thepinion gear system 188 with thesecond shaft 62.

Thebelt system 190 is designed in particular as a single-stage reduction gear.

Pinion gear system 188 has a first gear-pinion combination 196 with afirst gear 198 and afirst pinion gear 200. Thefirst pinion 200 is coupled in a rotationally fixed manner to thefirst gear 198. The first gear andpinion combination 196 is rotatable about a first axis of rotation 202 (fig. 18). A first axis ofrotation 202 about which the gear andpinion assembly 196 is rotatably supported is parallel to the axis ofrotation 178 of themotor shaft 174.First gear 198 is torque-operatively coupled to drivegear 176; thedrive gear 176 drives a firstgear pinion assembly 196.

Thepinion gear system 188 includes a second gear-pinion combination 204 having asecond gear 206 and afirst pinion gear 208. Thesecond pinion 208 is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to thesecond gear 206.

The secondgear pinion combination 204 is rotatably supported about a second axis ofrotation 210. The second axis ofrotation 210 is parallel to the first axis ofrotation 202.

Thesecond gear 206 is torque-operatively coupled with thefirst pinion gear 200.

A first reduction stage is formed bycoupling drive gear 176 which has a smaller diameter thanfirst gear 198.

In one embodiment, the first stage has a reduction ratio of 11: 34.

Thefirst pinion 200 has a smaller diameter than thesecond gear 206. Which thus forms the second reduction stage.

In one embodiment, the reduction ratio of the second reduction stage is 14: 29.

Thefirst portion 192 of thebelt system 190 includes afirst belt 212. Thefirst belt 212 is torque-operatively coupled to thefirst shaft 56 via afirst pulley 214 that is rotationally fixedly connected to thefirst shaft 56.

In one embodiment,belt system 190 includes afirst steering element 216 over whichfirst belt 212 is guided.

A rotationally effective coupling between thepinion system 188 and thefirst shaft 56 spaced apart in thelongitudinal direction 72 of the cleaninghead 52 can be achieved via afirst belt 212.

Thesecond pinion 208 has a smaller diameter than thefirst pulley 214. Which thus forms a further reduction stage.

In one embodiment, the reduction ratio of the third reduction stage is 15: 30.

Thepinion gear system 188 has a third gear-pinion combination 218 (fig. 7) with athird gear 220 and athird pinion gear 222. The third gear andpinion combination 218 is rotatably supported about a third axis ofrotation 224. Thethird rotation axis 224 is parallel to thefirst rotation axis 202.

Thethird gear 220 is constructed in the same manner as thesecond gear 206 and is coupled to thesecond gear 206. The rotation of the third gear andpinion assembly 218 is opposite to the rotation of the second gear andpinion assembly 204.

Thethird pinion gear 222 is constructed in the same manner as thesecond pinion gear 208.

Thesecond portion 194 of thebelt system 190 is torque-operatively coupled with the third gear andpinion assembly 218.

The belt system has asecond belt 226 which is arranged on thethird pinion 222 and leads to asecond belt pulley 228 which is arranged on thesecond shaft 62 in a rotationally fixed manner. Thesecond belt 226 is diverted via a second divertingelement 230.

Thesecond portion 194 of thebelt system 190 functions the same as thefirst portion 192.

The reduction in rotational speed is the same as when utilizing the second gear-pinion combination 204 of thefirst portion 192 of thebelt system 190. The secondgear pinion assembly 204 is driven via the firstgear pinion assembly 196, wherein the secondgear pinion assembly 204 is in turn directly coupled with and drives the thirdgear pinion assembly 218.

The overall reduction ratio with respect to the reduction of themulti-stage gear 180 is in particular between 1:10 and 1:15, and for example in the range between approximately 1:12.5, wherein the correspondingly high rotational speed of themotor shaft 174 is reduced to a rotational speed of approximately 500 revolutions per minute of the cleaningroller unit 60, 66.

Intermediate drives are provided for theshafts 56, 62, respectively.

The respective first andsecond pulleys 214, 228 are centrally located between theouter end surfaces 232a, 232b of therespective shafts 56, 62. Therespective shaft 56, 62 then has afirst accommodation region 234 and asecond accommodation region 236. With therespective pulleys 214, 228 positioned therebetween. A cleaning medium, such as a textile facing, is positioned around first andsecond containment regions 234 and 236. The cleaningmedium 70 is absent from the area of therespective pulley 214, 228.

By means of this intermediate drive, the respectivecleaning roller unit 60, 66 is formed in two parts.

This two-piece construction with intermediate drive enables cleaning close to the edge.

Thedrive motor 172 of thedrive 170 is disposed within the housing 238 (fig. 14). Thetransmission 180 is disposed within thetransmission housing 240. The transmission housing is in particular connected to thehousing 238 for thedrive motor 172 or forms a common housing.

Thehinge assembly 96 is positioned above thehousing 238 of the cleaninghead 52.

In one embodiment, afree space 242 is associated with thedrive 170 and in this case in particular with the combination of thehousing 238 and thetransmission housing 240. Thefree space 242 is delimited in particular by a region of the combination of thehousing 238 and thetransmission housing 240 and in particular by a steppedregion 244.

Theregion 244 and thefree space 242 are located at least approximately centrally on the cleaning head 5, in particular with respect to thewidth direction 78 of the cleaninghead 52.

In particular, thehinge 96 is arranged in thefree space 242 and in theregion 244, or therecess 112 is arranged on thisregion 244 or on thefree space 242. This results in a design which saves space and optimizes the use of space. The height H can thus be kept small.

In particular, the first axis ofoscillation 104 is located in thefree space 242.

In order to achieve a compact design of the cleaninghead 52, it is provided here that thedrive axis 178 and thefirst pivot axis 104 are as close to one another as possible and in particular have a spacing of at most 5cm and preferably at most 3 cm.

In particular, it is provided here that the joint 96 with the first joint 102 and the second joint 106 is arranged centrally on the cleaninghead 52 with respect to thewidth direction 78. With respect to thelongitudinal direction 72 between thefront end 74 and therear end 76, thehinge device 96 is preferably located in the middle or is slightly offset close to the middle in the direction of therear end 76, i.e. thehinge device 96 is closer to therear end 76 in thelongitudinal direction 72 than to thefront end 74, wherein thehinge device 96 close to the middle is closer to therear end 76 in thelongitudinal direction 72 than to thefront end 74.

Thesurface cleaning machine 10 operates as follows:

in operation, an operator grasps the retainingbar arrangement 100 via the handle. The cleaninghead 52 rests with itscleaning roller units 60, 64 on thesurface 18 to be cleaned. The operator also stands on the surface to be cleaned.Surface cleaning machine 50 is manually guided.

Via the pivoting of the holdingrod arrangement 100 about thefirst pivot axis 104, the operator can perform height adaptation.

During the cleaning process, the operator can comfortably carry out the cleaning process on the basis of the ability of the retainingbar arrangement 100 to swing on the cleaninghead 52 about thefirst swing axis 104 and thesecond swing axis 108.

In particular, the operator can obtain the steering of the cleaninghead 52 over thesurface 18 to be cleaned by steering the retainingbar arrangement 100.

In the cleaning operation of thesurface cleaning machine 50, the firstcleaning roller unit 60 and the secondcleaning roller unit 66 are driven to rotate by thedrive device 170. These cleaning roller units are in particular driven in opposite directions.

The cleaningroller units 60, 66 are wetted with a cleaning liquid (fresh water or a mixture of fresh water and a cleaning agent) by a wetting device. Improved soil removal is thereby obtained.

The wetted facing surfaces (wetted cleaning medium 70) of the cleaningroller units 60, 66 act on the dirt on thesurface 18 to be cleaned. The dirt is removed and taken along by the cleaningroller units 60, 66 and discharged to atank arrangement 86 for dirty liquid. This can be carried out or supported by the suction assembly via the suction flow if necessary.

The holdingrod arrangement 100 may be placed in thefirst position 140. This is a parking position. In thefirst position 140, the positioning of the retainingbar arrangement 100 is fixed by the fixing means 152.

In thesecond position 142 of thehold bar arrangement 100, thesurface cleaning machine 50 has a lowest height in theheight direction 94. For example, thesurface cleaning machine 50 can thus be stored in a space-saving manner in the non-cleaning mode of operation.

Furthermore, thesurface cleaning machine 50 has a minimum height in thesecond position 142 of the retaininglever arrangement 100 also during the cleaning operation, and an optimized downward travel capability under furniture or the like is achieved.

Thedrive 170 is designed in a space-saving manner and is arranged on the cleaninghead 52 in a space-saving manner. The multi-stage reduction of thegear unit 180 allows thedrive motor 172 to be constructed with a smaller geometry, and thus the height H of the cleaninghead 52 to be kept smaller.

An optimal edge cleaning is obtained with respect to the lateral sides 80, 82, however also with respect to thefront end 74 and therear end 76.

Furthermore, this arrangement of thesurface cleaning machine 50 by means of thedrive 170 also has a low center of gravity. An optimized operability with less risk of overturning is obtained.

By providing the cleaningroller units 60, 66 at a distance from one another, no additional drive wheels or supporting wheels have to be provided and therefore no corresponding marks occur on thesurface 18 to be cleaned, i.e. the wiping pattern is not influenced.

An optimized operability is obtained in terms of optimizing the cleaning function of the surface cleaning machine.

The described arrangement and design of thedrive device 170 can also be implemented on a cleaning head 246 (indicated in fig. 14 by dashed lines), on which the retainingbar arrangement 100 is not arranged. Such a cleaning head 246 is designed, for example, as a self-propelled and self-steering device ("cleaning robot").

Nor is there a need for a corresponding hinge.

Such a cleaning head 246, particularly as a self-propelled and self-steering apparatus, has the advantages of the low height (corresponding to height H) described above. This results in particular in an optimized downward travelability under furniture or the like. Cleaning is obtained not only forwards but also backwards but also to the approaching edges of both sides.

In the respective cleaning head 246, for example, asteering wheel 248 or the like can be provided in order to enable a corresponding non-operator-guided steering on thesurface 18 to be cleaned.

In other respects, the function of the cleaning head 246 as a device is as described above.

List of reference numerals

10 cleaning machine

12 cleaning head

14 cleaning tool

16a first cleaning roller unit

16b second cleaning roller unit

18 surface to be cleaned

20 holding rod device

21 operator

22 handle

24 hinge device

26 first hinge member

28 first axis of oscillation

30 straight forward direction of travel

32 straight backward direction of travel

34 first position

36 second position

38 second hinge member

40 second axis of oscillation

42 wetting apparatus

44 tank arrangement for fresh water

46 tank device for dirty liquid

50 surface cleaner

52 cleaning head

54 head body

56 first axis

58 first axis of rotation

60 first cleaning roller unit

62 second shaft

64 second axis of rotation

66 second cleaning roller unit

68 sleeve

70 cleaning media

72 longitudinal direction

74 front end

76 rear end

78 width direction

80 first lateral side

82 second lateral side

84 cover element

86 tank device for dirty liquid

88 lower side

90 upper side

92 envelope plane

94 direction of height

96 hinge device

98 upper surface

100 holding rod device

102 first hinge member

104 first axis of oscillation

106 second hinge member

108 second axis of oscillation

110 plane of envelope

112 cavity

114 opening

116 Pin element

118 shaft

120. 120', 120' connecting element

122 lower side

124 corner element

126. 126', 126' first region

127' cross-connecting part

128. 128', 128' second region

129 transverse direction

130. 130', 130 "obtuse angle

131 osculating curve

132 concave opening

134 pin element

136 opening

138 protective element

140 first position

142 second position

144 basic position

146 longitudinal axis

148 Right angle

150 obtuse angle

152 fixing device

154 magnet

156 magnet system

158 flat iron pole

160 acute angle

Region 162

164 lower side

166 cladding part

168 corrugated pipe

170 driving device

172 drive motor

174 motor shaft

176 drive gear

178 rotation axis (drive axis)

180 drive device

182 first direction of rotation

184 second direction of rotation

186 area

188 pinion gear system

190 belt system

192 first part

194 second part

196 first gear pinion combination

198 first gear

200 first pinion

202 first axis of rotation

204 second gear pinion combination

206 second gear

208 second pinion gear

210 second axis of rotation

212 first belt

214 first pulley

216 first steering element

218 third Gear pinion Assembly

220 third gear

222 third pinion gear

224 third axis of rotation

226 second belt

228 second belt pulley

230 second diverting member

232a end face

232b end face

234 first accommodation area

236 second accommodation area

238 casing

240 transmission housing

242 free space

244 area

246 cleaning head

248 to the wheel.

Claims (41)

1. A cleaning machine comprising a cleaning head (12; 52), a retaining rod arrangement (20; 100) and a hinge arrangement (24; 96), via which the retaining rod arrangement (20; 100) is pivotably hinged on the cleaning head (12; 52), characterized in that a connecting element (120; 120 '; 120 ") is arranged on the retaining rod arrangement (20; 100), which connecting element has a first region (126; 126'; 126") and a second region (128; 128 '; 128 "), wherein the second region (128; 128'; 128") is spaced apart from the first region (126; 126 '; 126 ") in a transverse direction (129), and the transverse direction (129) is oriented transversely to a longitudinal axis (72; 146) of the retaining rod arrangement, the connecting element (120; 120'; 120") being connected to the hinge (26; 38; 102, and (b); 106) is connected to the pivot element, and an axis of oscillation (28; 40; 104; 108) wherein, in particular, the articulation is a part of the articulation device (24; 96) has a first oscillation axis (28; 104) of the first hinge member (26; 102) and the connecting element (120; 120'; 120 ") is present via the first region (126; 126'; 126 ") and the retaining rod arrangement (20; 100) are connected.

2. The cleaning machine as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the connecting element is configured as a dog-ear element (120; 120 ") or as an arched element (120').

3. The cleaning machine as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second region (128; 128') is arranged at an angle (130; 130') with respect to the first region (126, 126'), in particular an obtuse angle, or a cross-over (127 ") is arranged between the first region (126") and the second region (128 ").

4. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the first region (126; 126'; 126 ") is oriented coaxially to a longitudinal axis (72; 146) of the retaining bar arrangement (20; 100).

5. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one cleaning tool (14; 60, 66) is arranged on the cleaning head (12; 52), which has at least one of the following:

-the axis of oscillation (104) of the hinge (102) is oriented at least approximately parallel to a flat surface (18) on which the cleaning head (12; 52) together with the at least one cleaning tool (14; 60, 66) is supported for a normal cleaning operation;

-the oscillation axis (104) is oriented with respect to an envelope plane (92) contacting the surface to be cleaned (18) at least approximately parallel to the at least one cleaning tool (14; 60, 66);

-the oscillation axis (104) is oriented at least approximately parallel to the rotation axis (58; 64) of the at least one cleaning tool (14; 60, 66);

-the oscillation axis (104) is oriented at least approximately parallel to a width direction (78) of the cleaning head (52) between a first lateral side (80) and a second lateral side (82);

-under normal cleaning operation, the oscillation axis (104) is oriented transversely, and in particular perpendicularly, to a straight forward direction of travel (30) of the cleaning head (52);

-the oscillation axis (104) is located within the cleaning head (52) and in particular between the underside (88) of the cleaning head (52) and the upper side (90) of the cleaning head (52) with respect to a height direction (94) between the underside (88) of the cleaning head (52) and the upper side (90) of the cleaning head (52);

-the cleaning head (52) has a front end (74) and a rear end (76), wherein the cleaning head extends in a longitudinal direction (72) between the front end (74) and the rear end (76), and the oscillation axis (104) is transverse, and in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal direction (72) of the cleaning head (52);

-the hinge (102) and/or the swing axis (104) are located between a front end (74) and a rear end (76) of the cleaning head (52), and in particular are located midway between the front end (74) and the rear end (76) or closer to midway than the front end (74) and the rear end (76) with respect to a longitudinal direction (72) of the cleaning head (52);

-the hinge (102) and/or the swing axis (104) are closer to the rear end (76) than to the front end (74) with respect to a longitudinal direction (72) of the cleaning head (52).

6. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the connecting element (120; 120'; 120 ") has a concave opening (132) which is directed towards the rear end (76) of the cleaning head (52).

7. The cleaning machine as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a recess (112) is arranged or formed on the cleaning head (52), in which recess the hinge (102) is positioned, wherein in particular the second region (128) sinks at least in sections into the recess (112).

8. A cleaning machine as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that said oscillation axis (28; 104) is located in or below said cavity (112).

9. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the retaining bar arrangement (20; 100) has a first position (34; 140) about the axis of oscillation (28; 104) with at least one of the following:

-the retaining bar arrangement (20; 100) is positioned transversely to the cleaning head (12; 52) with respect to a longitudinal direction (146) of the retaining bar arrangement (20; 100), wherein the angle of the longitudinal direction (146) of the retaining bar arrangement (20; 100) with respect to the cleaning head (12; 52) is in particular in the range between 75 ° and 105 ° and is, for example, at least about 90 °;

-a first region (126) of the connecting element (120) is oriented transversely to the cleaning head (12; 52), wherein in particular the angle between the first region (126) and the cleaning head (12; 52) is in the range between 75 ° and 105 ° and is for example at least about 90 °;

-the cleaning machine has its maximum height in a height direction (94) between a lower side (88) of the cleaning head (12; 52) and an upper side (90) of the cleaning head (12; 52);

-a second region (128; 128') of the connecting element (120; 120') is positioned transversely to the cleaning head (52);

-with respect to the concave opening (132) of the connecting element (120) between the first region (126) and the second region (128), the second region (128) of the connecting element (120) is oriented at an obtuse angle (150) with respect to the cleaning head (52);

-the obtuse angle (150) of the second region (128) relative to the orientation of the cleaning head (52) corresponds to the difference of 270 ° and the obtuse angle (130) between the first region (126) and the second region (128).

10. A cleaning machine as claimed in claim 9, characterized by a fixing device (152) for non-positively fixing the first position (140).

11. A cleaning machine as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that the securing device (152) is constructed in such a way that the first position (140) is maintained when the cleaning head (52) is placed on a floor which is inclined by 10 ° relative to the horizontal in the direction of gravity.

12. A cleaning machine as claimed in claim 10 or 11, characterized in that said fixing means (152) have magnet means.

13. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the securing device (152) has a first element (156) arranged or formed on the cleaning head (52) and a second element (128) arranged or formed on the connecting element (120), wherein the first element (156) and the second element (128) cooperate for the force-locking securing of the first position (140).

14. The cleaning machine as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that the second element (128) is arranged or formed on a second region (128; 128 '; 128 ") of the connecting element (120; 120'; 120").

15. The cleaning machine according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the first element is or comprises a magnet (154) which is arranged on the cleaning head (52) and the second element (128) is a holding element of the magnet (154), wherein, in particular, at least one partial region (128; 128 '; 128 ") of the connecting element (120; 120'; 120") is configured as a holding element.

16. The cleaning machine of claim 15, wherein the magnet (154) is part of a multi-layer magnet system (156).

17. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the foregoing claims, characterized in that at least one cleaning tool (14; 60, 66) is arranged on the cleaning head (12; 52), the retaining rod arrangement (20; 100) having a second position (142) in respect of the axis of oscillation (28; 104) and having at least one of the following:

-a first region (126; 126') of the holding rod arrangement (20; 100) and/or of the connecting element (120; 120') is oriented at least approximately parallel to an envelope plane (92) of the at least one cleaning tool (14; 60, 66) with respect to a longitudinal axis (146) of the holding rod arrangement (20; 100);

-the cleaning machine has its lowest height H in a height direction (94) between a lower side (88) of the cleaning head (52) and an upper side (90) of the cleaning head (52);

-an area (186) of the retaining bar arrangement (100) is directed towards the at least one cleaning head (52) and in particular is located below an upper side (90) of the cleaning head (52);

-a second region (128; 128') of the connecting element (120; 120') is oriented at a zero or acute angle (160) with respect to the concave opening (132) of the connecting element (120; 120') between the first region (126; 126') and the second region (128; 128 ');

-the acute angle (160) of the second region (128; 128') with respect to the orientation of the cleaning head (52) corresponds to the difference of 180 ° and the obtuse angle (130; 130') between the first region (126; 126') and the second region (128; 128') of the connecting element (120; 120 ');

-the retaining bar arrangement (20; 100) does not project beyond the upper side (90) of the cleaning head (52) or at most projects by 5 cm.

18. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the holding bar arrangement (20; 100) can be pivoted about the pivot axis (28; 104) between a first position (34; 140) and a second position (36; 142), wherein in particular the pivoting range between the first position (34; 140) and the second position (36; 142) lies in a range between 80 ° and 100 ° and is, for example, at least approximately 90 °.

19. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hinge device (24; 96) is arranged and constructed in such a way that the turning of the cleaning head (12; 52) is carried out on the surface (18) to be cleaned via the turning of the retaining rod device (20; 100).

20. A cleaning machine as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hinge device (24; 96) has a hinge as a first hinge (26; 102) with a first pivot axis (28; 104) and a second hinge (38; 106) with a second pivot axis (40; 108), wherein the second pivot axis (40; 108) is oriented transversely to the first pivot axis (28; 104).

21. A cleaning machine as claimed in claim 20, characterized in that the second axis of oscillation (40; 108) intersects the first axis of oscillation (28; 104) or has a spacing of at most 2cm and in particular at most 1cm relative to the first axis of oscillation.

22. The cleaning machine as claimed in claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the second axis of oscillation (108) passes through a second region (128; 128 '; 128 ") of the connecting element (120; 120'; 120").

23. The cleaning machine according to one of the claims 20 to 22, characterized in that a hinge element (134) of the second hinge (106) which can be swiveled about the second swivel axis (108) is arranged on a second region (128; 128 '; 128 ") of the connecting element (120; 120'; 120"), and in particular a hinge section (118) of the first hinge (102) which can be swiveled about the first swivel axis (104) is arranged on the second region (128), wherein in particular the hinge sections (134, 118) of the first hinge (102) and of the second hinge (106) are realized in a single part or have a spacing of at most 5 cm.

24. Cleaning machine according to the preamble of claim 1 or any of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one of the following:

-the hinge arrangement (96) is positioned between a first cleaning tool (60) and a second cleaning tool (66) with respect to a longitudinal axis (72) of the cleaning head (52), wherein the cleaning tools (60, 66) are configured in particular as cleaning rollers;

-the hinge arrangement (96) is positioned above a tank arrangement (86) for dirty liquid with respect to a height direction (94) of the cleaning head (52) between a lower side (88) of the cleaning head (52) and an upper side (90) of the cleaning head (52);

-the hinge arrangement (96) is positioned above the drive arrangement (170) with respect to a height direction (94) of the cleaning head (52) between a lower side (88) of the cleaning head (52) and an upper side (90) of the cleaning head (52);

-assigning a free space (242) to the drive device (170), the articulation device (96) being positioned at least partially within the free space.

25. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cladding (166) is assigned to the hinge device (96), in particular positioned on the cleaning head (52) and the retaining bar device (100).

26. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, and/or comprising a cleaning head (52; 246), a first roller unit (60), a second roller unit (66) and a drive device (170) for rotationally driving the first roller unit (60) and the second roller unit (66), characterized in that the drive device (170) has a drive motor (172) which is positioned between the first roller unit (60) and the second roller unit (66) with respect to a longitudinal direction (72) of the cleaning head (52; 246), the drive device (170) comprises a transmission (180) by means of which a torque of the drive motor (172) can be transmitted to the first roller unit (60) and the second roller unit (66), and the transmission (180) comprises a reduction transmission, wherein the rotational speed of the first roller unit (60) and the rotational speed of the second roller unit (66) are less than the motor rotational speed of the drive motor (172).

27. The cleaning machine according to claim 26, characterized in that the reduction gear mechanism has a reduction ratio from the rotational speed of the drive motor (172) to the roller rotational speed in a range between 1:10 and 1:15, and in particular at least approximately 1:12.5, wherein in particular the roller rotational speed is in a range between 400 and 600 revolutions per minute.

28. The cleaning machine as claimed in claim 26 or 27, characterized in that the transmission (180) is designed in such a way that the first roller unit (60) and the second roller unit (66) rotate counter to one another.

29. The cleaning machine of any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein the reduction gear mechanism is of multi-stage design and in particular of three-stage design.

30. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 29, characterized in that the transmission has a pinion system (188) functioning as a two-stage reduction transmission and a belt system (190) functioning as a single-stage reduction transmission, wherein the belt system (190) is torque-effectively coupled with the pinion system (188).

31. A cleaning machine as claimed in claim 30, characterized in that said belt system (190) is torque-operatively coupled with the respective shaft (56; 62) of the respective roller unit (60; 66).

32. A cleaning machine as claimed in claim 30 or 31, characterized in that the pinion system (188) has a first gear-pinion combination (196) coupled with the drive motor (172) and a second gear-pinion combination (204) coupled with the first gear-pinion combination (196) and with the belt system (190).

33. The cleaning machine of claim 32, wherein the pinion gear system (188) has a third pinion gear assembly (218) coupled with the second pinion gear assembly (204) and the third pinion gear assembly is coupled with the belt system (190).

34. The cleaning machine of claim 33, wherein the second pinion gear assembly (204) is coupled with a first portion (192) of the belt system (190) that is coupled with the first roller unit (60), and the third pinion gear assembly (218) is coupled with a second portion (194) of the belt system (190) that is coupled with the second roller unit (66).

35. A cleaning machine as defined in any one of the preceding claims 26 to 34 in which there is at least one of:

-the drive axis (178) of the drive motor (172) is oriented parallel to the rotational axis (58, 64) of the roller unit (60; 66);

-the drive axis (178) of the drive motor (172) is oriented parallel to the oscillation axis (28; 104) of the articulation device (24; 96);

-the drive axis (178) of the drive motor (172) and the swivel axis (28; 104) have a spacing of at most 5 cm.

36. A cleaning machine as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first roller unit (60) and a second roller unit (66) are arranged on the cleaning head (52; 246), which are each constructed in two parts, wherein the drive (170) is coupled centrally with the respective roller unit (60; 66).

37. A cleaning machine as claimed in claim 36, characterized in that the roller unit (60; 66) reaches up to the end side of the cleaning head (52; 246).

38. The cleaning machine as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized by a first roller unit (60) and a second roller unit (66), wherein the first roller unit (60) and/or the second roller unit (66) is configured as a cleaning roller and in particular has a textile lining.

39. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning head (52; 246) has a height (H) of at most 20cm, in particular at most 15cm, in particular at most 14cm, in particular at most 13cm, in particular at most 12cm, in particular at most 11cm, in the height direction (94) between the underside (88) of the cleaning head (52; 246) and the upper side (90) of the cleaning head (52; 246).

40. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 39, characterized in that it is configured as a self-propelled and self-steering apparatus (246).

41. A cleaning machine as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 39, characterized in that it is configured as a manually guided surface cleaning machine (50).

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